Macafem

Question
Is it safe to take Macafem with a thyroid medication such as Armour Thyroid? I understand Macafem helps balance hormones and may help with premenopausal or menopausal hot flashes, anxiety and sleeping difficulties. I also heard it may improve thyroid function - but would it be too stimulating for someone already on Armour Thyroid?


Answer
Hi Marie,



My thoughts here are: there should not be a contraindication. Because Macafem is a non-estrogenic herb.



As opposed to phytoestrogenic herbs, non-estrogenic herbs for menopause don?t contain estrogen. These herbs for menopause stimulate the hormonal glands to naturally and more efficiently produce body-own hormones.



Phytoestrogenic herbs for menopause are plants that contain herbal components called phytoestrogens, which have chemical structures similar to human estrogen.



These are the most common Phytoestrogenic herbs.

? Black Cohosh

? Ginsing

? Soy phytoestrogen

? Red Clover Phytoestrogen

? Dong Quai phytoestrogen





Although Armour Thyroid will speed up your metabolism, it is not effective as a weight-loss drug and should not be used for that purpose. Too much Armour Thyroid may cause severe side effects, especially if you are also taking appetite suppressants.





Take Armour Thyroid exactly as prescribed by your doctor. There is no "typical" dosage; the amount you need to take will depend on how much thyroid hormone your body is able to produce. Take no more or less than the amount your doctor prescribes. Take your dose at the same time every day for consistent effect.





What side effects may occur?

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Side effects are rare when Armour Thyroid is taken at the correct dosage. However, taking too much medication or increasing the dosage too quickly may lead to overstimulation of the thyroid gland.



   * Symptoms of overstimulation may include:

     Changes in appetite, diarrhea, fever, headache, increased heart rate, irritability, nausea, nervousness, sleeplessness, sweating, weight loss.



With any medication, always be aware of how it affects you. If you observe any of these side-effects, discontine the use of Macafem and consult your doctor if they continue while just using Armour Thyroid.



Best wishes,

Dennis